Why Help Your Tenant Claim?

Helping your tenant make a Universal Credit claim quickly is in both your interests. The sooner their claim is processed, the sooner housing costs can be included — reducing the risk of rent arrears building up and protecting your rental income.

The 5-Week Wait

New UC claimants must wait 5 weeks before receiving their first payment. This is a significant risk period for landlords. During this time, tenants can apply for an Advance Payment to cover living costs — but this must be repaid from future UC payments.

You should be aware of this gap and consider whether you can agree a temporary payment plan with your tenant during this period.

Information You Can Provide to Help

• A copy of the tenancy agreement showing rent amount and tenancy start date
• Your landlord details — name, address, and bank account details for direct payments
• Confirmation of the property address and type of tenancy
• Details of any service charges included in the rent
• Confirmation of whether the property is furnished or unfurnished

How to Make a UC Claim

Your tenant can claim Universal Credit:

• Online: www.gov.uk/universal-credit/how-to-claim
• By phone: 0800 328 5644 (Universal Credit helpline)
• At their local Jobcentre Plus

They will need: proof of identity, National Insurance number, bank account details, rent details, and information about their income and savings.

Requesting Direct Payments from the Start

If you are concerned about your tenant's ability to manage their finances, you can request that the housing element is paid directly to you from the outset. Ask your tenant to request a Managed Payment to Landlord when they make their claim, or submit a UC47 form to DWP.

Support Services for Tenants

• Citizens Advice: www.citizensadvice.org.uk — free benefits advice
• Turn2Us: www.turn2us.org.uk — benefits calculator and grants
• Shelter: www.shelter.org.uk — housing and benefits advice
• Local council: may offer discretionary housing payments (DHPs) to cover shortfalls

Discretionary Housing Payments (DHPs)

If the Local Housing Allowance (LHA) rate does not cover the full rent, your tenant may be able to apply to the local council for a Discretionary Housing Payment to make up the shortfall. These are limited funds and not guaranteed, but worth applying for.